The government approved on Wednesday the support criteria for farmers through a national scheme.

The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Anila Denaj, at the end of the government meeting, announced that the aim is to support more than 70,000 farmers, who will be supported through the national scheme. 

According to Denaj, the focus will be on the union of farmers, aiming at economies of scale. Denaj said that 77% of the farmers benefited from the scheme approved on Wednesday.

"A total of eight measures have been defined, including support for cows, small livestock, beekeeping, vegetables, strawberries and grapes, and aromatic medicinal plants. Oil for agriculture will continue with the same criteria, which will not be possible with oil given in drums or cards, but money in the account," said Denaj.

"It was supported for the certification of organic farms, which has been and will continue to be in 2024 according to international standards," said Denaj. She noted that "priority will be given to applicants who are members of an agricultural union society, or a union of operators with at least seven members. 

Applications are expected to open at the end of March, and according to Denaj, the target date is March 27, to find spaces to support all applicants.